I exchange a confused look with Sacha. I know she’s baiting me. What I’m uncertain about is her motive. What is she searching for? Sandwiched between Marcellus and Ada, I’m aware of the additional shielding of my mind that keeps my thoughts private. I don’t feel an attempt to tamper with my mental space. “Is she trying to get into my mind?” I send the question through the link, carefully studying Sebile. If she’s aware of the communication, she’s not letting it show.
“No, we’re precautionary. The best defense is a good offense,” Marcellus says. I can’t fault his logic. Cristobal sends him with me for a reason.
As we ride onto the property, I admire the ice sculptures of Faeries, wings open as if they’re ready to take flight. Their flowing gowns and tunic and breeches are a throwback to a different time. The detail of each face is exquisite.
We finally come to a stop across from a grand stone staircase that reminds me of an entrance to a cathedral. The thick railing is covered with a glittery layer of fresh snow.
“Alston will bring your bags up to your rooms,” Sebile says as he helps her down. We follow suit, and I take everything in as we ascend the stairs. A heavy, rounded, wooden door is decorated with elaborate carvings and words in a language I don’t recognize. It swings open for its mistress. The sound of laughter, orchestral music, and conversation spill out to greet us. Crossing the threshold, I’m immediately swallowed by merriment. Servants walk by carrying trays of frosted glasses with purple, pink, blue, and green drinks, and an assortment of hors-d’oeuvres. The scene mimics an elite cocktail hour, except the guests aren’t human. I try not to gawk at the beautiful range of skin tones and humanoid forms. Tree Fae with bark-like skin and leaves for hair, blue water Fae with white hair, and red-skinned Fae with hair the colors of a sunset are just a few of the unique beings mingling in the crowd. I knew Faeries were inhumanly beautiful, but this is a sensory overload.
“May I present Louella Esçhete and her esteemed entourage. Once they have a moment to freshen up, the feast will begin in the dining hall.” She’s brilliant as she rules over her subjects, and lords the honor of hosting us over the other courts. I can spot the stillness among the flurry of activity. Power radiates from certain individuals in visible waves. I know instinctively these are the rulers of the other three courts.
Sebile stops a young, dark-haired Faerie with a pixie haircut and over-sized amber eyes.
“Magena, escort our guests to their rooms, and guide them back down when they’re ready.”
It’s a whirlwind of faces, hallways, and rooms that are fit for royalty. I’m sharing a suite with the other three girls done in gold and emerald with ornate four-poster canopy beds, high ceilings with crown moldings, and furniture older than the three of us put together. Our luggage is waiting outside each assigned room. I want to explore, but it’s not polite to keep people waiting.
“She’s not letting us have time to gather our thoughts at all, is she?” Sacha asks as we meet in the main room.
“No. I’m sure it’s a tactic,” Ada says softly.
“If she wanted to keep me off-kilter, she’s succeeded.”
“Be careful what you eat and drink,” Ada cautions.
“We’ll be checking everything with our magic,” I assure her.
“Two or three times,” Sacha adds.
A knock sounds at the massive double doors.
“Come in,” I call.
“If you ladies are ready, I’ll lead you to the dining room. The men are waiting.” Magena clasps her hands in front of her as if she’s praying. Back ramrod straight, and eyes trained on the floor, you can tell she’s been doing her job for some time.
“Lead on, Magena.” I smile.
We follow her outside where Marcellus, Larkin, and Percival are waiting.
“Are your rooms as luxurious as ours?” Marcellus asked.
“Yes. I’m thinking of asking for upgrades to the mansion now,” Ada says.
I roll my eyes. “Snobs.”
“Privileged is the word we prefer,” Marcellus drawls.
“Children, can we get along, please?” Percival asks dryly.
Larkin smirks. It’s all bravado. We’re using the familiar banter to settle our nerves. What once showed animosity had become a sign of genuine affection. By the time we reach the main hall where people are gathered with drinks and curious gazes, I’m rock steady. Sebile slinks over with a wicked smile.
“May I present the soon to be Lady of the Cortez Court, and the matriarch to be of the Esçhete family, Louella Esçhete.” All eyes are on me. I hold onto my skirts and curtsy, grateful for the stringent training from the court of courtesy rituals long past.
“This one has manners,” Sebile purrs.
Laughter fills the space. I’ve passed my first test.
“One never knows what you’ll get when dealing with humans. Perhaps this one will be tolerable.”